Michael Popke

1 week ago | shepherdexpress.com | Michael Popke

One of the most-anticipated acts performing at Summerfest this year has to be Devo. Formed in 1973, the Akron, Ohio-based new-wave band that achieved status with its 1980 single “Whip It” began a “farewell tour” in 2023 and is now on its extended “50 Years of De-Evolution … Continued!” tour. “Whip It” helped drive Devo into the MTV mainstream. Kitschy and satirical, the band wore costumes on stage that famously included red, terraced energy dome hats.

1 week ago | shepherdexpress.com | Michael Popke

On paper, you could argue that BABYMETAL simply shouldn’t work. Yet the group — three Japanese females in their 20s who helped introduce so-called “kawaii metal” to U.S. audiences — became the first Japanese group to hit the Billboard Top 40 in more than 50 years with its second album, 2016’s Metal Resistance. BABYMETAL also was the first Asian act to top the Billboard Rock Album charts in 2019 with its third album, Metal Galaxy. But what, exactly, is Kawaii metal?

1 week ago | shepherdexpress.com | Michael Popke

Sometimes, Summerfest books legends. And the Isley Brothers, ladies and gentlemen, are legends. An early inductee to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992, followed by induction to the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2003 and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014, this group of siblings wrote a slew of singles that became part of American music history. They include “It’s Your Thing” (1969), “Fight the Power” (1975) and the ubiquitous “Shout!” (1959).

2 weeks ago | benefitspro.com | Michael Popke

Financial uncertainty is significantly impacting wellbeing, especially among Gen Z and millennials, according to Northwestern Mutual’s “2025 Planning & Progress Study.” The report — conducted by The Harris Poll and featuring responses from more than 4,620 U.S. adults — is part of the financial services company’s proprietary research series that explores Americans’ attitudes, behaviors, and perspectives across a broad set of issues impacting their long-term financial security.

2 weeks ago | benefitspro.com | Michael Popke

U.S. employees are being asked to make high-stakes decisions about their household finances — choosing health plans, for example, or setting retirement contributions — without the clarity, support, or tools they need to choose wisely. Although these decisions have a direct impact on long-term financial outcomes, many workers are left guessing their way through the process.